Drew Magary’s Funbag: Music History, Yogurt, and the State of Pop Culture

Drew Magary’s weekly advice column, the Funbag, recently tackled a range of topics, from favorite music history books to the proper way to eat yogurt. Published on Defector on March 17, 2026, the latest installment likewise touched on the state of pop culture, the perils of social media, and a nostalgic look back at MTV. Magary, also a columnist for SFGATE, continues to offer his signature blend of insightful commentary and wry humor.

Delving into Music History

Responding to a reader question, Magary shared a list of music history books that have resonated with him. He highlighted Louder Than Hell: The Definitive Oral History of Metal by John Wiederhorn and Katherine Turman, Van Halen Rising by Greg Renoff, I Want My MTV by Rob Tannenbaum and Craig Marks, Nothin’ But a Good Time: The Uncensored History of the ’80s Hard Rock Explosion by Tom Beaujour and Richard Bienstock, Life by Keith Richards, and Watch You Bleed by Stephen Davis. He emphasized the importance of reading about artists one has lived through, citing Everybody Loves Our Town by Mark Yarm as a particularly engaging read, despite its tragic undertones.

Yogurt Preferences and Culinary Quirks

Magary also addressed a reader’s question about yogurt consumption, revealing his preference for removing the fruit from the bottom and eating it separately. He confessed to often adding granola, honey, and jam to plain yogurt, dismissing the health benefits of most commercially available yogurts due to their high sugar content. He also shared a savory yogurt preparation involving coarse salt, pepper, za’atar, and olive oil served with flatbread.

Capitalism, Socialism, and the State of Pop Culture

Responding to a reader’s inquiry, Magary acknowledged a shift in his views on capitalism, stating his goal is for the U.S. To resemble Denmark, with abundant public services alongside economic opportunity. He declined an invitation to join a Marxist reading group, citing his tendency to abandon books mid-read.

Nostalgia and the MTV Generation

Magary expressed nostalgia for the early days of MTV, lamenting the channel’s decline and recalling fondly the days of “Dial MTV” and the game show “Remote Control.” He noted the impact of MTV on his generation and the dopamine rush associated with remembering those times.

Other Musings

The Funbag also included responses to questions about college applications (Magary clarified he only received acceptance from one school, Michigan, as a safety school), the original host of Jake from State Farm commercials, and a hypothetical scenario involving citizens of the Moon (whom he’d privately call “idiots”). He also shared his frustration with poorly designed food packaging, specifically plastic wrap and parchment paper.

Drew Magary’s Funbag continues to provide a unique and entertaining perspective on a wide range of topics, solidifying his position as a sharp and insightful voice in contemporary pop culture commentary. You can find his work at Defector and SFGATE.